CARSON, CALIF. (August 30, 2017) – Sensational three-division champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz will defend his featherweight world title against Chris Avalos, while four-time world champion Abner Mares defends his 126-pound championship against once-beaten Andres Gutierrez at StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. on a show presented by Premier Boxing Champions live on FOX and FOX Deportes on Saturday, October 14. Televised coverage begins at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT.

If Santa Cruz and Mares win their respective matches, they have both agreed to terms to meet in a highly anticipated rematch for the WBA featherweight title in early 2018. Santa Cruz won a hard-fought, narrow decision against Mares in a 2015 Fight of the Year candidate that saw the two men go toe-to-toe for 12 fast-paced rounds and combine for over 2,000 punches thrown.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Promotions and TGB Promotions, are priced at $30, $50, $75, $100, $150, and $250 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets, visit AXS.com HERE.

“Leo Santa Cruz and Abner Mares are two of the best featherweight champions in boxing and to have them both fighting on the same card is a treat for boxing fans,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Against Avalos, Santa Cruz will have the opportunity to demonstrate why he’s considered one of the most skilled and durable fighters in the division and in his first defense since winning the title Mares can expect a rugged challenge from Gutierrez, who has only lost once in his career and by a close decision.”

“This is going to be a jam-packed afternoon of can’t-miss action for boxing fans in Southern California,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports. “StubHub Center brings out the best in fighters and I expect that to continue when Leo Santa Cruz and Abner Mares defend their titles against two hungry challengers in Chris Avalos and Andres Gutierrez. Ringstar Sports, along with TGB Promotions, are looking forward to putting together an exciting card full of future stars and compelling bouts for the great fans at StubHub Center and watching on FOX and FOX Deportes.”

Santa Cruz (33-1-1, 18 KOs) established himself as one of the top featherweights in the world in matches against Mares and Carl Frampton. Cruz lost a close decision to Frampton in 2016 and avenged the loss with a decision victory on Jan. 28 in Las Vegas. The 29-year-old was unbeaten in his first 33 pro fights on his way to world titles at 118, 122 and 126-pounds. With a victory over Avalos, Santa Cruz, who fights out of Los Angeles, will cement his hold on featherweight supremacy and stay on the path to that showdown with Mares.

“I’m excited to get back in the ring,” said Santa Cruz. “I’ve been working hard in camp and it’s great to be back in the gym. Chris Avalos is a tough contender who’s fought the best in the division. I love my fans and I’m planning on giving them a great show. I never overlook any opponent, but my plan is to put on a great performance, and then give fans more exciting fights against Abner Mares and Carl Frampton. I’m ready to prove I’m the best featherweight in the world.“

Fighting out of Lancaster, California, Avalos (27-5, 20 KOs) will be vying for a featherweight title for the first time. He came up short in his other world championship bout, losing the 122-pound world championship Carl Frampton via knockout in 2015. In his most recent bout, Avalos scored a TKO victory over Miguel Flores when the fight was stopped on cuts in the fifth round on July 18 in the main event on FS1 and FOX Deportes.

LOS ANGELES (July 27, 2017) – Accomplished Super Heavyweight amateur and 2016 Olympian Efe Ajagba and fellow Nigerian Heavyweight amateur standout Efetobor Apochi have signed-on to become the latest promising young fighters to join the Ringstar Sports roster. Both fighters will make their professional debuts on the Premier Boxing Champions event headlined by Victor Ortiz vs. Saul Corral this Sunday, July 30 live from Rabobank Theater in Bakersfield, California.

“We couldn’t be more excited to add these two outstanding young men to the growing Ringstar roster of fighters,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports. “I’ve seen these guys in action and I think boxing fans are in for a real treat. These are two of the biggest hitters I’ve seen and we expect them to rise quickly and make a name for themselves in their respective divisions.”

The fighters, who will be managed by Hall of Famer Shelly Finkel, have moved to Houston, TX to work with renowned trainer Ronnie Shields.

“Both young men have the potential to be world champions,” said Finkel. “I’m very proud to be working with both of them.”

“I feel so blessed to have signed with Ringstar Sports and Richard Schaefer,” said Efe Ajagba. “I have dreamed of this day for many years and yet it is bigger than I could have ever imagined! My time has come! I will show I am a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division.”

“It is a big pleasure to become a part of Ringstar Sports,” said Efetobor Apochi. “I have never wished for anything more. I am so grateful for this opportunity and promise to give the fans a show!

Born and raised in Ughelli Delta State, Nigeria, Efe Ajagba began boxing in 2011 at the age of seventeen and quickly discovered his craft on this way to a 41-2 (30 KOs) amateur record. In 2014, the 6’6 fighter was selected to compete in the Commonwealth Games held in Glasgow and went home with the bronze medal. Shortly thereafter, Ajagba took gold in the 2015 All African Games in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo. In 2016, he went on to win gold at the African Olympic Qualification event in Yaounde, Cameroon, landing him a spot on the 2016 Nigerian Olympic team. On Sunday, July 30, Ajagba will make his professional debut against Tyrell Herndon (6-1-0, 2 KOs) in a 6-round Heavyweight clash.

Also born and raised in Ughelli Delta State, Nigeria, Efetobor Apochi began his boxing career in 2007 and racked up an impressive record of 55-6 (54 KOs). The 5’11 cruiserweight captained the 2014 Commonwealth Games and took home the bronze after knocking out his first opponent in the first round, upsetting his second foe in the quarterfinals and losing to the eventual gold medalist in the semifinals. Apochi looks forward to the start of very promising professional career as he takes on Cruiserweight Daniel Mejia in a 4-rounds of action.

Interview Opportunities: Swanson Communications is pleased to arrange interviews with Efe Ajagba and Efetobor Apochi as well as Richard Schaefer. Send a request to contact@swansonpr.com or call 202-783-5500.

Four-Division World Champion Nonito Donaire Joins Ringstar Sports As He Seeks Another World Title Run

LOS ANGELES (July 25, 2017) – Four-division world champion Nonito Donaire will join forces with Ringstar Sports as the international boxing star attempts to add another world championship to an already illustrious list of career accomplishments.

“Exploring what was out there in the new landscape of boxing was unnerving and exciting at the same time,” said Nonito Donaire, “I have known Richard for many years and have always respected what he has been able to do for the fighters he promotes. At this point in my career I want the biggest fights possible and Richard’s track record to deliver them speaks for itself. The thought of the mega-fights against the likes of Mares, Santa Cruz, Selby or Frampton gets my blood boiling. The next chapter of my career is starting now and I am excited to say that it is with Ringstar! I am grateful to my fans and team for their continued support!”

“Nonito is one of the modern day legends of our sport,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports. “One of these rare fighters that always delivers and always knows how to entertain! I am convinced that he will again become one of the pound for pound best fighters in the world. No doubt about it! I want to thank his wife and manager, Rachel Donaire as well for the trust she places in me. We can’t wait to get going!”

Born in the Philippines and living in California, Donaire burst onto the scene in 2007 after a stellar amateur career when he stopped previously unbeaten Vic Darchinyan in the fifth round to capture a flyweight world title. Donaire would defend the title with three more knockouts before he moved up to bantamweight and defeated unified champion Fernando Montiel in 2011 to becoming a two-division world champion.

Donaire’s next challenge came at super bantamweight as he made it 27 consecutive victories by knocking down and defeating Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. in 2012 to become a champion at 122-pounds. A banner year for Donaire continued with a title-unifying victory over Jeffrey Mathebula and knockouts over Jorge Arce and Toshiaki Nishioka. After the impressive run Donaire was recognized as the 2012 Fighter of the Year by the BWAA, ESPN and Ring Magazine.

A loss to Guillermo Rigondeaux ended a 30-fight win streak for Donaire, but he continued to add to his resume as he won a world title in a fourth weight class by winning a featherweight championship via technical decision over Simpiwe Vetyeka in 2014. (more…)

Ringstar Sports Prospects Featured in Primetime on Televisa at 10:30 p.m. CT

CHIHUAHUA, MEXICO (June 26, 2017) – Ringstar Sports is proud to announce that two of Mexico’s brightest rising stars will return to action as 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Misael Rodriguez and 2016 Mexican Olympian Lindolfo Delgado will be featured on “From Parral to the World” taking place Saturday, July 22 from Lienzo Charro Parral in Mexico and live on Televisa.

“I’m excited to have my second professional fight be in my hometown of Parral, Chihuahua, amongst my family, my friends and my people,” said Rodriguez. “The Mexican people have been amazing to me and their support from the Rio Olympics to today means so much to me. I plan on showing my opponent, everyone in the arena and the Mexican people watching on Televisa, the strength, strategy and excitement that I bring to the sport. We’re ready!”

“I am from Linares Nuevo León, and being able to fight in the biggest state in Mexico for my second fight means so much to me,” said Delgado. “I know that we will have the support of the Mexican people during the fights and that I will demonstrate my skill and strength. I can’t wait to show the fans what the new generation of Mexican boxing looks and punches like. I’m proud to be on a card bringing world class boxing to Parral and live on Televisa for all the Mexican people.”

Televised coverage on Televisa begins at 10:30 p.m. CT and will give fans a chance to see two of the next great fighters in the long line of Mexican boxing champions as Rodriguez battles Colombia’s Jose David Mosquera in a six-round middleweight boutand Delgado takes on Venezuela’s Gustavo Vera in six-rounds of super lightweight action.

Three-time world champion and Mexican star Jhonny Gonzalez will look for his sixth straight victory when he takes on unbeaten Jessie Cris Rosales in the main event.

“This is a great chance for the Mexican boxing fans watching on Televisa to see two of the country’s future world champions displaying their talents,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports. “Misael Rodriguez and Lindolfo Delgado bring a lot of excitement to the ring and I think that fans are going to fall in love with their styles right away. This primetime slot fighting on the undercard of a Mexican champion like Jhonny Gonzalez is only the beginning of their very bright futures.”

“Working with Misael reminds me of myself after the Athens games,” said Abner Mares, Rodriguez’s manager. “He is a strong, smart and effective young fighter who is starting his professional career in both the U.S. and Mexico. He had the hopes of Mexico on his shoulders during the Rio games and now the Mexican people can be proud being a part of his young professional career. He is ready for his fight against Mosquera and to do it in Parral is a dream come true for him, and a source of pride for everyone in Chihuahua.”

The event is promoted by by Promociones del Pueblo in association with Municipio de Parral, Cavall Vino Tinto and Playboy Mexico and is sponsored by Municipio de Parral, Cavall Fine Wine and Playboy Mexico.

At last year’s Rio games, the 23-year-old Rodriguezovercame incredible odds to win the first Olympic boxing medal for Mexico since Christian Bejerano in 2000. The Chihuahua native and his teammates had to resort to begging on public buses and streets in Mexico to raise money to compete in international boxing tournaments. He completed his road to the medal stand by defeating Egypt’s Hosam Bakr Abdin to clinch a medal in the middleweight division. Rodriguez made his pro debut in April with a dominant decision victory over Brian True in Los Angles.

A teammate of Rodriguez on the 2016 Mexican Olympic team, Delgadomade his pro debut in style in April with a third round stoppage of Luis Angel Silva. The 22-year-old captured gold at the 2016 American Olympic Qualification to earn his trip to Rio. Born in Linares but training in Tijuana, Delgado compiled a 139-15 amateur record that included a victory over former world champion Amnat Ruenroeng.

LaManna of Millville, New Jersey will compete in a bout scheduled for eight-rounds.

The 25 year-old LaManna has a record of 22-2 with nine knockouts.

LaManna won his first 16 bouts, where enjoyed wins over Ashanti Gibbs and Jamaal Davis.

After suffering his first professional defeat to undefeated middleweight prospect Antoine Douglas, LaManna ripped off five consecutive victories that was highlighted by by a 4th round stoppage over Kendal Mena (20-3).

On September 15, 2016, LaManna engaged in a hotly contested bout with undefeated Dusty Hernandez Harrison in Philadelphia. The bout, which was for the USBA Welterweight title was a close fight and LaManna fought well, but came up just short via unanimous decision.

LaManna will be looking for his 2nd consecutive victory, as in his last bout, he won a one-sided eight round unanimous decision over Ecuadorian veteran Eduardo Flores on January 28th at The Claridge.

This will be LaManna’s 5th appearance, and 15th start in Atlantic City.

“I’m happy to be back in the ring, I was supposed to fight on April 14th, but unfortunately the promoters did not live up to their word so I ended up not fighting. I gone through some personal issues that kept me down and out for a while, but I bounced back. I’m now with a new teacher Mr. Charles Johnson, leading my training. Charles has shown be a new side of boxing that I’ve never been around and I can’t wait to show it on June 10th. I feel like I have a whole new start.””I was strongly considering stepping out of the promotion field, but it’s obvious that what I’m doing is working, so why give myself up to someone else. I’m keeping myself busy and gaining knowledge and experience, while at the same time packing The Claridge Hotel and fighting in front of my fans. I’m a strong believer in “If you want things done right, you got to do it on your own”.

LaManna’s opponent will be announced shortly,

In the eight-round co-feature, it will be a battle of New Jersey based welterweight’s as local favorite Anthony “Juice” Young will take on Juan “The Beast” Rodriguez.

Young of Atlantic City has a record of 16-2 with six knockouts.

Young is a six-year professional and is coming off a career best performance against Samuel Amoako (21-13, 15 KO’s). That bout took place on March 11th. The 29 year-old will be making his 10th appearance in Atlantic City and 3rd at The Claridge.

Rodriguez of Union City, New Jersey has a record of 13-4 with five knockouts.

Rodriguez is an eight-year professional who has wins over Greg Jackson (3-0-1), and in his last bout he took an eight-round split decision in a all out war over Alex Perez (18-2) on August 27, 2016 in Bayonne, New Jersey.

“This is going to be a great fight card! You have Thomas who’s on the edge of getting another big opportunity and the Young/Rodriguez fight is a all out Crossroads.” Debra LaManna, President of Rising Star Promotions.

“Not to mention the under card. Ennis, Smith, Thomas all these fighters have tremendous fan bases and they can really fight. I expect great match ups on this card and the fans will really get their moneys worth.”

In six-round bouts:

Jaron Ennis (10-0, 8 KO’s) of Philadelphia will take on an opponent to be named in a Welterweight bout.

Gabriel Pham (8-1, 4 KO’s) of Pleasantville, NJ will take on an opponent to be named in a super middleweight bout.

In four-round bouts:

Donald Smith (4-0, 3 KO’s) of Philadelphia will take on Sidell Blocker (1-7-1) of Pleasantville, NJ in a super featherweight bout.

Chris Thomas (6-0, 3 KO’s) of Toms River, NJ will take of rough and rugged Dawond Pickney (1-4-2) of Hot Springs, Arkansas. Pickney’s last outing at the Claridge, he dropped a very close MD defeat to Philadelphia’s Greg Jackson (7-3-1 2 KO’s).

Elijah Vines (3-0, 3 KO’s) of Philadelphia will take on Henry Tyrone Page (0-4) of Batesville, Arkansas in a junior middleweight title.

Tickets for this great evening of boxing are priced at $150, $125, $100, $80 and $55 and can be purchased at www.rspboxing.com

LOS ANGELES (April 27, 2017) – Five promising young stars proved they’re fighters with big careers ahead of them as they made their pro debutsin the Ringstar Sports promoted Premier Boxing Champions showon FS1 & FOX Deportes on Sunday, April 9 from The Novo at L.A. Live.

The televised opener featured celebrated 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas earning a powerful stoppage in his professional debut over Thomas Smith. Balderas stalked Smith with precision and forced Smith’s corner to throw in the towel following the first round.

Also featured that event evening were a slew of talented fighters who made their highly anticipated professional debuts including;

2016 Lithuanian Olympian Eimantas Stanionis landed an array of big power shots and combinations against Rasheed Lawal. Stanionis put the pressure on with two swarming attacks in the first round, the second onslaught proved too much for Lawal and forced the referee to stop the fight in round one (2:35).

Lindolfo Delgado stopped Luis Silva in round three (:33). Delgado knocked Silva down with a vicious uppercut in the second round and Silva never fully regained himself before his corner stopped the fight in the third frame.

Money Powell IV used his height and reach advantage to dominate Todd Templeton, knocking Templeton down twice and then stunning him a third time before the referee stopped the action in the first round (2:55).

Here is what the media had to say following their bouts:

“Balderas made his pro debut and did what he was expected to do, which is look impressive against an overmatched opponent in Smith, 29, of Dallas. Balderas blasted away at Smith with head and body punches throughout the opening round, after which he retired on his stool.”

– ESPN

“His [Karlos Balderas] career got off to a good start as he halted Smith in a single round, his opponent opting not to leave his corner for the second frame….He’s young enough to grow, get the right fights at the right time and then strike when his team feels he’s ready. And while Balderas showed in making it to the quarterfinals of the 2016 Rio Games that he had the potential to strike gold in 2020 if he stuck around the amateur ranks, he would rather join his teammates Shakur Stevenson, Nico Hernandez and Claressa Shields in chasing a pro title.” – Boxing Scene

“Balderas, along with silver-medalist Shakur Stevenson, was among the most sought-after recruits from the Olympics.” – LA Times

“Balderas has the electrifying athleticism and fights like a human hunter seeking missile. He quickly established his credentials with some flashy combinations that overwhelmed his opponent Thomas Smith in their lightweight fight” – The Sweet Science

“The 20-year-old from Santa Maria made a huge statement in his professional debut. Fighting at the Novo in L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles, Balderas thoroughly dominated Thomas Smith.” – KEYT News

“The professional boxing career of Santa Maria native Karlos Balderas got off to a smashing start Sunday night at the Novo at L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles.” – San Luis Obispo Tribune

“Stanionis, also on the Novo card Sunday, is knocking out Miguel Cotto’s pro sparring partners at Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood, according to Stanionis’ trainer Freddie Roach.” – LA Times

“2016 Lithuanian Olympian Eimantas Stanionis (1-0, 1 KO) landed punches in bunches against Rasheed Lawal (1-5-1). Stanionis applied pressure with two swarms of punches in the first round, the second barrage proving too much for Lawal and forced the referee to stop the fight in round one (2:35)” – Boxing Scene

“Stanionis, 22, was a highly sought-after Olympian. He has relocated to Los Angeles to live and train as he gets his career going. Roach has been impressed with him.”– ESPN

“Early into the fight Misael found himself feeling the pro punches as his opponent landed clean but Misael showed the ability to take them comfortably and return fire to gain the upper hand after the second round managing to work soundly and take home a unanimous decision for his pro debut in front of his supporters.” – Boxing Insider

“Misael Rodriguez is the future of boxing.” – World Champion Abner Mares

“Mexico’s Lindolfo Delgado followed with a third-round TKO stoppage of Tijuana’s Luis Silva. After dropping Silva late in the second round, super-lightweight Delgado unleashed his impressive power punches again to inspire Silva’s corner to throw in the towel 32 seconds into the third.” – LA Times

Junior welterweight Lindolfo Delgado (1-0, 1 KO), 22, a 2016 Mexican Olympian, dropped Luis Silva (3-10, 2 KOs), 30, of Mexico, with an uppercut in the second round before Silva’s corner threw in the towel at 33 seconds of the third round.” – ESPN

“Junior middleweight Money Powell IV (1-0, 1 KO), 19, of Fort Mitchell, Alabama, who would have been a top candidate to make the 2020 U.S. Olympic team, dropped Los Angeles’ Todd Templeton (0-1) twice before getting the knockout with five seconds left in the first round.” – ESPN

LOS ANGELES (April 5, 2017) – Southern California-based fighters Josesito Lopez, Alejandro Luna, Misael Rodriguez and Maricela Cornejo hosted a media workout at the Robert Garcia Boxing Academy in Riverside Wednesday ahead of their bouts this Sunday, April 9 from the Novo at L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles.

Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes action is headlined by the former title challenger Lopez taking on Mexico’s Saul Corral in a welterweight matchup. Televised coverage begins at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT and features the unbeaten Luna facing former title challenger Andrey Klimov and the pro debut of 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Sports, are priced at $30 general admission, $60 balcony reserved, $100 VIP balcony reserved and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased through AXS.comHERE.

The 2016 Mexican Olympian and bronze medalist Rodriguez and the former title challenger Cornejo will both enter the ring in separate undercard attractions.

Here is what the participants had to say Wednesday in front of over 100 attendees including media, civic leaders and boxing fans from the community

JOSESITO LOPEZ

“First thing is that I can’t look past my opponent on Sunday night. If all goes well, I know that bigger things are coming. I want to give fans fights that they’ll remember for years to come. I’m that guy who wants to make great fights.

“I know that I’m facing a tough fighter from Mexico. I always know that these guys come with a real hunger to win. I’ve prepared very well and I’m ready to put on a show Sunday night.

“I’ve taken advantage of opportunities given to me in the past and I’m looking to take advantage of every one I get. I’m going to show off my abilities on Sunday.

“I’m in a good state of mind right now. I’ve been working for several months and I really feel 100 percent physically.

“This is going to be a good fight. He’s going to come with the will to win. I’ll be smart and use my abilities. I’ve been working on some new things and Sunday will be a glimpse of what’s left to come.

“It’s an honor for me to be the main event on a card with so many great young fighters. I remember that moment many years ago. These fighters are the future. This is just the beginning. I’m the present right now and I’m going to show that on Sunday.”

ALEJANDRO LUNA

“More than anything I think that the fans can expect fireworks. I’m fighting a crafty veteran guy in Klimov who has fought the best. He’s fought guys like Terrence Crawford and Jose Pedraza. Our styles are meant for each other and I think they’re going to clash. The fans are going to be the real winners.

“I say yes to every challenge they put in front of me. This is a big test. I feel confident in my training and I believe I can get past Klimov. I think getting this win shows that I’m ready to fight any champion in the lightweight division.

“I train 100 percent every time. I had a smooth camp and I’m ready to go. My work ethic is my secret weapon. I’m a believer that fights are won in the gym.

“I fight for the people every time I’m in the ring. They’re paying money to see a great fight and I want them to get their money’s worth.

“I’ve been under the radar but I think that in 2017 I’m going to put myself in the world title picture. I give it my all in the ring.”

MISAEL RODRIGUEZ

“I’m excited because I have a great team behind me with Richard Schaefer, Abner Mares and Robert Garcia. I feel strong and ready for this fight.

“I’m so happy to be fighting in Los Angeles, because it’s like a second Mexico. I hope the fans all come out to see me because I’m going to work hard to be the next Mexican superstar.

“I’m going to keep working and getting stronger and better. I have to be consistent and have good training camps so I can reach my goals.

“Training with Robert Garcia has been great. He has had a lot of champions and I hope that I will be next. Him and his whole family are good people and they’ve treated me like family. I’ve learned a lot already.

“I have to be smart in the ring. I’m a Mexican fighter in my heart and I always will be. But I have to be smart and be ready for anything in the ring.”

MARICELA CORNEJO

“Joel Diaz has helped me so much with the mental side of the game. The way he speaks so passionately about the sport, he transfers that to me. I feel that belief and trust. He gives me the right words to keep me going and unleash anything I was holding back.

“I work really hard at this sport. People didn’t see me when I was coming up, but It’s been a real journey. I’ve never backed down from anything. I’m proud to be a female fighter in the sport right now. Female athletes are getting more attention across the world than they ever have.

“Boxing means a lot to me. I’ve overcome a lot of obstacles. Getting in the ring and getting hit in the face is a lot easier than what I’ve had to go through. I love boxing because it’s all about going for the win no matter what is thrown in front of you.”

RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports

“All of these young fighters we’re letting loose on Sunday are coming to fight. This won’t be ‘Dancing with the Stars’, they will come to engage and destroy. These guys all have advanced skills and I look forward to seeing them in the ring.

“Misael Rodriguez is a very charismatic person. He’s an entertainer and a fighter. With Abner behind him as a manager and Robert Garcia as a trainer, this is a kid who wants to surround himself with the best. Watching his career will be very exciting.

“Josesito had his biggest win, over Victor Ortiz, right across the street at Staples Center and he is ready for the next step in his career in a stacked welterweight division. I also believe that Alejandro Luna is on the cusp of being in world title contention if he can get through Klimov on Sunday. In addition, you have one of the most charismatic female stars in Maricela Cornejo going along with an incredible group of young talent making their debuts on Sunday.

“With this new young class of fighters coming out of Southern California combined with world champions like Leo Santa Cruz, Mikey Garcia and Abner Mares, Los Angeles is on its way to being the fight capital of the world again.

“I’ve never done an event on a Sunday and it definitely doesn’t happen very often. I want to challenge the status quo and try different things. I am equally excited about this Sunday card as I have been for any card I’ve promoted because of all the great young talent.”

ABNER MARES, Rodriguez’s Manager

“I’m nervous and excited to see Misael in the ring on Sunday. He’s a fighter with a lot of heart and the desire to become a world champion just like I was coming out of the Olympics.

“Our goal is to have Misael fight six times this year. We’re going to go step-by-step to make him a champion.

“Misael is the future. He brings excitement and he’s likeable. He’s in a great weight class and the team he has behind him will get him to where he needs to go.

“Seeing Misael grow from the manager’s side will be as exciting if not more than my own progression. I can’t wait to take him to a world championship.”

LOS ANGELES (March 28, 2017) – A group of newly-signed Ringstar Sports talent was on display at the Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood Tuesday, as the young fighters participated in a media workout in advance of their respective pro debuts taking place Sunday, April 9 from The Novo at L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles.

Participating in Tuesday’s workout was 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas of Santa Maria, Calif., who will make his pro debut in a six-round super featherweight contest featured on the Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes telecast.

Also working out for the media was 2016 Team Mexico Olympic Bronze medalist Misael Rodriguez, who is trained by Robert Garcia and managed by Abner Mares, 2016 Lithuanian Olympian Eimantas Stanionis, who is trained by Freddie Roach and 2016 Mexican Olympian Lindolfo Delgado.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Sports, are priced at $30 general admission, $60 balcony reserved, $100 VIP balcony reserved and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased through AXS.com HERE.

Here is what the participants had to say Tuesday:

KARLOS BALDERAS

“I’ve improved a lot working in the gym. I’m doing a lot of good sparring and strength and conditioning work. We’re training harder but also a lot smarter than ever.

“I’m really looking forward to this fight. I’ve prepared well. I’m taking this as seriously as a championship fight. You’re going to see a new Karlos Balderas on April 9.

“I definitely want to make Los Angeles my home for as many fights as possible. That’s where everything is happening. I want to make Los Angeles mine.

“I want to be in exciting fights as a professional. I’m proud of what I did in the amateurs and the Olympics, but I know this is an entirely different game. I’m looking to do even bigger and better things.

“I’m going to take it one fight at a time. I want to build a perfect record and build my fan base. I hope to be fighting for a world title in a few years. I know that I have the right team to get me there.

“I’m going to try to stay busy and get a fight every two months or so. My last fight was at the Olympics in Rio, but after this one I’ll be ready to stay in training throughout the year.

“I’ve known a lot of these other fighters here for a long time from all of the amateur tournaments. It’s nice to see us all coming together now as professionals. In the amateurs people pretty much stay with their own team, but this is the time for us to come together and learn from each other. It’s a great feeling to be a part this.

“Everyone knows a Carlos with a ‘C,’ so I wanted to stand out. As a professional and from here on out, I am going to be known as Karlos with a ‘K’.”

MISAEL RODRIGUEZ

“I feel very strong and I’m excited to get back in the ring. I’m hungry to fight and prove myself in this sport.

“I’m looking forward to being in big fights. I know that it takes time. I will get there eventually and become a world champion.

“I’ve known Abner Mares for a long time because he was a Mexican Olympian as well and it was an easy decision to have him help me with my career.

“I knew after the Olympics that it was time to turn pro. Growing up as a Mexican child, all I wanted was to be a world champion. I want to be a fan-favorite for Mexicans.

“Los Angeles is like a second Mexico. It will feel like Mexico to me. I know that I will have a lot of fans coming from my hometown [Chihuahua, Mexico] to support me. I’m excited to work with Richard and put on more great fights.”

EIMANTAS STANIONIS

“I was very excited and eager when I first heard about the opportunity to train with Freddie Roach. I came out to California as soon as I could to start training.

“I’m working very hard. I give it my all in training and I leave everything in the gym every single day. I’m just going to keep doing my best.

“The Olympics were a very good experience for me. I won a lot of tournaments to get there and that road has led me to this moment.

“I met Richard Schaefer at the Olympics and that’s what led to me signing with Ringstar. I’m very happy to be with Richard and I’m excited for this first step.

“I want to start making my mark in the welterweight division. This is a division with big stars that I’d love to face one day.

“I never thought I would live in Hollywood, but here I am and I love Los Angeles.”

LINDOLFO DELGADO

“I had an awesome experience in the Olympics and it gave me a lot of confidence heading into my pro career. I’m excited to finally be able to enter the ring and I hope all of us Olympians give spectacular performances.

“It’s an honor to be turning pro on this same card with my Mexican teammate, Misael Rodriguez. I’m very happy for Karlos and Eimantas too and I look forward to being on more shows with them.

“I can’t wait to compete and show off my talent to all the fans. I’m going to keep improving my skills and I believe one day I’ll be able to become another Mexican world champion.

“Signing with Ringstar was the best choice that I could have made and I think there will be a lot of success for Ringstar and for me. This will be a great first step.”

RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports

“With Karlos Balderas you have someone with the skills in the ring, the personality and the character outside of the ring as well. The combination of all of this will ultimately, make him the new face of the sport.

“There always has to be somebody who carries the Southern California boxing scene. Right now there is a void. I see Karlos very quickly becoming the King of L.A. and become a star in the sport.

“This will be a big night for Mexican boxing. Both Misael and Lindolfo have a lot of discipline and worked very hard to earn the opportunity to represent their country and they will bring that work ethic into the pros.

“Lindolfo Delgado is the ‘Pretty Boy’ and I expect him to bring a lot of female fans, while Misael is the first Mexican boxer in 16 years to bring a medal back from the Olympics, which I think is very significant.

“Freddie told me that the only other time he saw someone walk through the door with as much natural talent as Stanionis, is when Manny Pacquiao came through that door.

“I’m excited for opening night on April 9. It’s the beginning of the next generation of stars. To see them all in one night is going to be very special.”

FREDDIE ROACH, Stanionis’ Trainer

“This is a great show for the future of boxing. You have four talented Olympians on this show. I can’t wait for Stanionis to show his skills to the world.

“Stanionis sparred with five of Miguel Cotto’s sparring partners and he knocked down three of them if that tells you anything about his power.

“I just want him to go out there and have some fun and do his job. We’re not going to go out there looking for a first round knockout, but if it comes, that’s a bonus. We’re going to show our skills and win every minute of every round.”

ROBERT GARCIA, Rodriguez’s Trainer

“I’ve been working with Misael for about three months after Abner brought him to me. With Mexico behind him and winning a bronze medal, that’s huge already. We have a game plan with this kid that we’re going to execute.

“Misael was only on the Mexican team for two years. He was the least experienced member of the team. He’s going to get a lot of experience while fighting as a pro.

“We’re going to keep him busy and definitely want him fighting in Mexico. He’s going to keep gaining more confidence each time he enters the ring.”

ABNER MARES, Rodriguez’s Manager

“I just wanted to help out Misael on the business side of the sport and that’s why I got involved in his career. I brought him to Robert’s gym to spar and everyone saw that he has a lot of skills.

“Being a bronze medalist from Mexico is a big thing to bring into the pros and I think it’s something the Mexican fans can get behind. Misael has room to grow but I believe the skills are there to be a world champion.

“I’m hoping to use my experience and my relationships to get him the right fights and put him in a position to reach his full potential.”

LOS ANGELES (March 22, 2017) – A host of newly-signed Ringstar Sports talent will take the stage and make their professional debuts in separate bouts that make up a stacked undercard on Sunday, April 9 from The Novo at L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles.

“This is going to be a tremendous night from top to bottom as the top talent from Ringstar Sports will begin their quests for superstardom,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of RIngstar Sports. “From 2016 Olympians like Misael Rodriguez, Lindolfo Delgado and Eimantas Stanionis to an accomplished amateur like Money Powell IV, fans at The Novo will be treated to outstanding bouts featuring top talent from start to finish.”

Additional action will see former world title challenger and Los Angeles-native Maricela Cornejo (6-2, 2 KOs) in a six-round super middleweight bout. The 29-year-old lost a narrow split decision in a middleweight world title fight against Kali Reis last April in New Zealand. Cornejo picked up two wins in the last three months of 2016 and will return seeking another world title opportunity on April 9.

Rounding out the night of fights will be former world title challenger Roberto Marroquin (25-4-1, 18 KOs) in a super featherweight bout, plus exciting prospect Alejandro Guerrero (2-0, 1 KO) in a six-round bout.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Sports, are priced at $30 general admission, $60 balcony reserved, $100 VIP balcony reserved and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased through AXS.comHERE. (more…)

“It is a great pleasure for me to welcome our first Olympic gold medalist, Tony Yoka, to Ringstar,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports. “Tony’s skills in the ring speak for themselves and combined with his tremendous charisma, he will transcend boxing and become a global superstar and ambassador for our sport in short order. I am pleased to work with Tony and his team to make his dream of becoming the undisputed Heavyweight Champion of the World a reality.”

“I am very excited to embark on the next chapter in boxing and turn professional with Ringstar,” said Tony Yoka. “I am committed to hard work and dedicating myself to the sport as I have done in the past and achieve my ultimate goal of becoming undisputed and unified heavyweight world champion. With Ringstar, I have the best promotional company and with Virgil Hunter, I have the best trainer in my corner. We will work as a team to get these belts and become the new face of boxing. My first fight will take place in mid-May in France after a three month training camp with Virgil.”

Born in Paris, France, Yoka began boxing at six-years-old and was trained by his father Victor, a former professional boxer in the Congo. The 24-year-old stands at 6’7″ and is coming off a gold-medal-winning performance that saw him defeat Great Britain’s Joe Joyce in the championship showdown in Rio.

Yoka came to the 2016 Olympic Games intent on winning gold and defeated fighters from Croatia, Jordan and the U.S. Virgin Islands on his way to the gold medal match.

Yoka first made a splash by winning the French Junior National Championship in 2008 and 2009 before claiming a silver medal at the 2010 Youth World Championships. He continued his rise to prominence by winning French National Championships in 2012 and 2014 while also defeating current heavyweight world champion Joseph Parker at the 2010 Youth Olympic games.

“I am thrilled to be able to work with Tony Yoka,” said world renowned boxing trainer Virgil Hunter. “He truly is a rare talent who has tremendous potential and with only 24 years of age, he has the opportunity to become the future of our sport. The fact that he is moving his training camp from France to California shows how committed he is to boxing and I am committed to helping him fulfill his dream of winning the Heavyweight World Championship.”

Added Jerome Abiteboul, President and CEO of French fashion brand Ünkut and CEO of Ringstar France, “I am very pleased to be part of the next chapter of Tony Yoka’s career and help guide him together with Richard and our team from Olympic gold in Rio to the Heavyweight Championship. After evaluating many proposals, we decided to sign with Ringstar because Richard’s track record in business and in boxing is unmatched and we fully share the same philosophy of empowering athletes and entertainers.”

Interview Opportunities: Swanson Communications is pleased to arrange interviews with Tony Yoka as well as Richard Schaefer. Send a request to contact@swansonpr.com or call 202-783-5500.